Vibrant International’s overseas education vertical believes that knowledge truly is power. Degrees of international universities provide an edge in today’s competitive market. Our team of consultants comprised in overseas education services department counsel students to guide them find their ideal vocation and subsequently find them the most compatible institution with which to enroll. Each task, from student evaluation and university selection to visa processing is handled in-house by our dedicated team of experts.
Australia is one of the safest countries in the world to live, study and work. Standing proud with 8 of the top 100 universities in the world, Australia is much more than just kangaroos. An increasing number of Indian students are opting for Australia to study abroad for its world-class education, post-study work opportunities and excellent quality of living. Whatever course you choose to undertake, you’ll be assured of unbeatable academic excellence and support system for international students. Moreover, Australia is the most well-paid country in the world and hence you can be sure of a shining future there.
Did you know Australia has the third highest number of international students in the world behind only the United Kingdom and the United States despite having a population of only 23 million? This isn’t surprising when you consider Australia has seven of the top 100 universities in the world! In fact, with over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, Australia sits above the likes of Germany, the Netherlands and Japan, ranking eighth in the Universities 2012 U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems.
These are strong academic credentials, but our institutions are just as highly rated as the cities that house them around the country. Australia has five of the 30 best cities in the world for students based on student mix, affordability, quality of life, and employer activity – all important elements for students when choosing the best study destination. And with more than A$ 200 million provided by the Australian Government each year in international scholarships, we’re making it easier for you to come and experience the difference an Australian education can make to your future career opportunities.
Do you have a specific study area of interest? There is every chance Australia has you covered, with at least one Australian university in the top 50 worldwide across the study areas of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Life & Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Medicine & Pharmacy, and Physics.
Given this impressive education pedigree, it’s not surprising there are now more than 2.5 million former international students who have gone on to make a difference after studying in Australia. Some of these students are among the world’s finest minds. In fact, Australia has produced 15 Nobel prize laureates and every day over 1 billion people around the world rely on Australian discoveries and innovations – including penicillin, IVF, ultrasound, Wi-Fi, the Bionic Ear, cervical cancer vaccine and Black Box Flight Recorders – to make their lives, and the lives of others, better.
Visa information Add to study guide
Australia introduced a Simplifies Student Visa Framework (SSVF) on July 1st 2016. Under the SSVF, all visa applications by international students and education agents are processed online by creating an account on ImmiAccount.
Student visa (Subclass 500)
All of the following types of study are included on this visa. For more information about student visa, visit Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP)(opens in a new window):
- Independent ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students)
- schools (primary and secondary)
- secondary school exchange program
- vocational education and training (VET)
- higher education
- postgraduate research
- non-award courses
- International students sponsored by the Department of Foreign Affairs or Defence.
Other visa options
For shorter periods of study, you can apply for a Visitor or Working Holiday Visa. There is also a visa option specifically for student guardians.
Student Guardian (Subclass 590)
- Provides for certain persons to reside with a student in Australia, where the student requires a guardian, ie: the student is under 18 years of age.
- Study up to 3 months or study ELICOS for 20 hours per week for duration of visa.
- Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement.
- Sufficient funds for airfares and living costs.
- Meet health and character requirements.
- Acceptable health insurance.
Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485)
- This visa allows eligible international students who have completed an Australian education to stay in Australia to gain work experience.
- You can work in Australia for a period of 18 months and up to 4 years, depending on your qualification.
- This visa does not restrict the type of work you may do or the number of hours you may work.
- Applications for this visa must be made in Australia and you must hold an eligible student visa in the last 6 months.
- You must meet Australian study, English proficiency, health insurance, health and character requirements.
- You must meet the specific requirements of the stream in which you are applying for this visa. Read more about Temporary Graduate visas(opens in a new window) on the DIBP website.
Visa options and requirements are sometimes subject to change. In order to stay up to date, the best place to get accurate information is on the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (opens in a new window) website. The website provides comprehensive information on the types of visas available for different levels of study in Australia, including people considering bringing family members with them (whether guardians, partners/spouses or children). You will also have access to help and advice about your specific visa requirements.
1. U.S. degrees have an excellent international reputation
It’s hardly a secret that universities in the U.S. continue to maintain a strong presence among top-ranked universities in the world. Partially this has to do with how well-funded and supported American universities are; but it also has to do with the high academic standards and rigorous requirements that they instill in their students.
With their always-changing and evolving classrooms, these universities continue to attract students from all over the world, and are courageously working every year to change the education they deliver so that students from all over the world are prepared to go back home and find wonderful careers.
2. American universities are bastions of cultural diversity
Nearly every university in the U.S. takes diversity to be one of their defining pillars. Historically, there has been a strong effort within the structure of these institutions to make cultural diversity central to the enrolment and admission efforts. Students often remark that their classes and dormitories are full of students from every nationality, religion, or ethnicity, and having access to and contact with so many cultural backgrounds makes the experience much more thrilling.
If you go to a university in the U.S., you will feel immediately comfortable around people who share a similar background as you and who have new ideas and perspectives to share. Studying abroad, in general, is one way to nurture your tolerance and openness to other cultures; studying in the U.S. adds another dimension, exposing you not only to American culture, but to the languages and beliefs of people from nationalities all over the world.
3. U.S. universities offer excellent support facilities to international students
In effort to make your transition to a U.S. university smoother, these institutions offer plenty of support to prepare international students for their classes. Through various workshops, English-language practice courses, orientations, and trainings, international students are given plenty of help to get them ready for their classes.
Moreover, there is some effort to allow international students the ability to stay in the U.S. after they graduate, so that they can attempt to pursue a wonderful career at some of the world’s biggest companies. In 2016, a massive effort was taken to allow graduates from STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to stay for 24 months to get work experience and extend their stay.
With this opportunity, you have the chance to look for work in fields that are always seeking ambitious and hard-working students; and with this extension, you can stay in the U.S. to find your footing at some of the biggest companies.
There are extraordinary study opportunities all over the U.S. and they are available to students everywhere: * Study Computer Science & IT in the United States * Study Business Administration in the United States * Study Mechanical Engineering in the United States
4. U.S. universities invest in optimised classroom experiences
As technology continues to innovate and change the way that information is delivered, university classrooms are trying to keep in step with the rapid acceleration of ideas. By giving students more access to web-based classes, utilising computer-based tests, and allowing students to use different labs and resources, universities are able to give you the latest and most modern classroom experience that you can imagine.
With these advanced capabilities and access to all kinds of resources, American universities keep the education up-to-date, with all of the gadgets and engaging virtual experiences that this generation of students is already accustomed to. If you go to a university in the U.S., you will find yourself immediately introduced to new ways of studying, learning, researching, and taking tests.
American universities offer a flexible environment for every students’ needs
Studying in American universities provides an ideal environment for students, characterized by flexible methods of education and continuous development process for students in the various fields of studies.
Depending on your strengths, interests, and goals, U.S. universities deliberately shift their classroom structures and instruction methods to make learning engaging and, at the same time, relevant to your own domain. U.S. universities are notoriously casual and relaxed. Students are under no obligation to show up to every single class, or to stay for an entire lecture. Now, just because you can avoid and skip classes, doesn’t mean you should.
Applying for a U.S. Student Visa
Students from outside of the United States experience much of the same college search and application processes if they decide to study at a U.S. college. But international students must not only be accepted to a U.S. college; they must also obtain permission from the U.S. government to live and study in the United States. Although the process is relatively straightforward, getting that permission requires good planning and preparation. Read on for the basics of applying for a U.S. student visa.
The College Admission Process
Before you can apply for a visa, you must know what college you’ll be attending. So, much like students living in the United States, international students must research their college options, apply to several colleges, and be accepted to at least one of them. Unlike U.S. students, international students must also prove to the college of their choice that they can pay all college fees and living expenses while studying in the United States. Some financial and merit aid may be available to international students, depending on the college you choose, but you still must have a well-thought-out, documented financial plan for your years in the United States.
Once you’ve been accepted and the college is satisfied that you can support yourself, the college will send you an I-20 form. This form documents that you have been offered admission to the college and that the college is satisfied that you can afford to study there. It also gives you a “report date,” or the date when you’re expected to arrive at the college to begin classes.
The I-20 is one of the main documents you’ll need to apply for a student visa.
Documents and More Documents
Once you receive your I-20 from the college, it’s time to put together the other documents you’ll need to apply for the visa. Students who plan on attending a four-year or two-year academic program should apply for the F-1 visa.
You need several main documents to apply for a visa:
- Form I-20, which you receive from the college.
- Form DS-156, which you can get from the U.S. State Department’s web site, evisaforms.state.gov, and Form DS-158 and Form DS-157 (for males only), which you can get from your local U.S. embassy or consulate.
- A passport that is valid for at least the next six months (preferably longer).
- A passport-sized photo of yourself.
- A receipt that shows payment of the visa processing fee. How you pay the fee differs in each country, so make sure to check with your local U.S. embassy or consulate for details. In some countries, you may not be able to pay the fee at the consulate.
Although these documents are the only official ones needed to apply, you also need to gather documentation to support certain aspects of your visa application.
The Big Three Questions
Your visa application, supporting documentation, and your interview with a consular officer (see below) must work together to answer the following questions:
- Are you a real student?
- Do you intend to return to your home country after college?
- Do you have enough money to support yourself while in the United States (without getting a job, which is illegal for non-immigrant students)?
Remember, by U.S. law, it is the consular officer’s job to find reasons to deny your visa. The officers are required to assume that you’re trying to immigrate to the United States permanently. It’s your job to prove differently.
The documents needed to answer these questions may be different depending on your country and your situation, but they may include any or all of the following:
- Your academic record to date.
- Copies of scores from any standardized tests you’ve taken (SAT, TOEFL, GRE, etc.).
- Letters of admission and financial aid awards from your U.S. college.
- Financial documents, such as your and your family’s bank statements, tax documents showing your/your family’s income, and statements from any investments that you plan to use to finance you education.
- Documents showing any scholarships or financial help from other sources (college financial aid, governmental or organizational grants, outside scholarships).
- Business registration or licenses and other documents if you or your family owns a business.
- Evidence that you intend to return to your home country, such as a statement from an employer that you’ll be considered for a job or have been offered a job after you complete your U.S. study; evidence that you own assets in your home country; anything else that shows that you have strong ties to your home country.
If you’re not sure what documents you should bring, talk to your high school counselor, the college contact for international students, or someone at the U.S. consulate.
The Interview
All visa applicants must have an interview with an officer at their country’s U.S. embassy or consulate. Different consulates may schedule interviews differently, so check with the consulate ahead of time.
Also, U.S. embassies and consulates in some countries are very busy and may have a long waiting list for visa interviews. It’s a good idea to check with the consulate early in the college application process, even before you receive an I-20, just in case your consulate has a waiting period. Some countries may have a months-long waiting period; others may be able to schedule interviews fairly quickly.
During this interview, consular officers will ask you a variety of questions about your plans for your education, finances and career after college. Again, they are looking for any reason to believe that you’re not a real student, that you may be planning to stay in the United States illegally, or that you won’t be able to support yourself financially in the United States.
The best way to succeed in your interview is to arrive well-prepared. Think through your answers to some of the following questions:
- Why do you want to study in the United States?
- Why did you choose this college?
- Why did you choose this major? What jobs does this major prepare you for?
- How will studying in the United States prepare you for a job here at home?
- What have you been involved in that shows your commitment to your home country?
- How will you pay for the college fees and living expenses in the United States? (Remember, students with F-1 visas are not allowed to get jobs in the United States except under special circumstances. So you cannot plan on any job income to pay for your studies or expenses at colleges.)
- Other questions about the United States, your educational plans, your career plans, and your finances.
You may wish to practice your answers with a counselor or friend. Be polite, and make your answers short and to the point. Most interviews are less than five minutes, so short answers are best.
Start the Process Early
Since the terrorist attacks in the United States on Sept. 11, 2001, the student visa process has been scrutinized by the media (several of the hijackers had visas to study in U.S. flight schools). The U.S. government now evaluates applicants more carefully than in the past, and some
applications require additional security screening. With these changes, advance planning is very important for international students.
For More Information
This is only an overview of what international students can expect from the U.S. visa application process. For more detailed information and help, talk to your high-school counsellor or the advisor to international students at your college. In addition, the US State Department, www.state.gov, has placed quite a bit of information on their Web site.
If you have questions about the visa process, it’s best to call your local U.S. embassy or consulate directly, or to check their Web site for information. It may seem intimidating to call the consulate, but it’s the best way to get good information about the visa process in your country.
Combining the benefits of a developed country with the charm of a quiet and peaceful countryside, New Zealand offers some distinct advantages over other countries as a destination for education. New Zealand is the ultimate outdoor adventure playground, from offering every kind of thrill and adventure to pure hedonistic relaxation and pleasure. The best part is that New Zealand Universities have minimal entry requirements for many programs and therefore at any result, you can still dream to grow and prosper in an international environmental.
If you are wondering whether New Zealand is the right destination to study for you to pursue further studies, doubt no more. New Zealand is fast becoming a first choice of international students who wish to get quality education at affordable cost. Here we outline some of the main reasons why international student population in New Zealand has grown tremendously in recent years.
Broad opportunities for study and research
The eight institutions that make up the university system in New Zealand are located across the two main islands, the North and the South. This distribution gives students a chance to pursue opportunities in study and culture. Although all the universities offer degrees in the arts, business, science, each college also has its own niche and distinct courses to offer.
Quality learning experience
New Zealand university system is research-based as it is based on the British education model. This means there are a lot of similarities between the two systems, such as the teaching methods. The fact the India also follows British education system makes it easier for Indian students to adjust. The academic staff is expected to be researchers as well as teachers. This ensures a high quality learning experience. New Zealand Vice-Chancellors’ Committee, the universities’ representative body, has legal responsibility for course approval and moderation.
Easy entry requirements
Unlike many other countries, New Zealand universities do not have a lot of competition to get admitted for a university degree. That is because the New Zealand government has invested heavily in higher education over the years. Because of that New Zealand universities have more capacity than the number of students. Students with moderate grades can get entry to most Bachelor degree programs easily. Hence the entry requirements are minimal compared to most of the top universities in the world.
A great destination
International students are welcomed warmly in New Zealand society for the cultural diversity they bring and their contribution to the economy. New Zealander citizens are well travelled and are interested in people from other cultures, so international students feel more welcome. Campuses have students from all across the globe studying together. Students come from Europe, South East Asia, UK, Asia, among many others.
Affordable costs
New Zealand has comparatively low cost of living, food easily available at reasonable prices and a wide variety of student accommodation options. Public transport is also moderately priced, offering easy access to rivers, lakes, forests and beaches for the recreational opportunities they provide.
A beautiful country
New Zealand is renowned for its naturally beautiful landscapes and the adventure activities they offer. The best thing is that all this is easily accessible from all eight universities of the country. Even though you will be there as a student, if you ever want to spend weekends and holidays exploring the country, you will have endless options to do so in however way you want. New Zealand offers great options for adventure sports and hiking etc.
Before you apply for a student visa
There are requirements you need to meet before applying for your student visa. You must be
accepted into an approved course and show you have enough money to live on while you’re in NZ.
What you need before you apply
To qualify for a student visa, you'll need:
- to have been accepted into a course at an education institute approved by the Ministry of Education or NZQA
- money for your tuition fees, or proof that they’ll be covered by a scholarship
- proof you have enough money to live on while you’re in NZ
- a ticket out of NZ, or enough money to buy one.
Supporting yourself financially
To support yourself while you study in NZ, you need to show you have one of the following:
- NZD$1,250 for each month if your programme of study is less than 9 months
- NZD$15,000 for each year if your programme of study is longer than 9 months
- a scholarship, such as a New Zealand Aid Programme scholarship, or
- a sponsor or family member who’s agreed to accept financial responsibility for you while you’re in NZ.
Insurance and health you'll also need:
- approved medical and travel insurance, and
- To be healthy and of good character.
Contact your education provider to get help with arranging medical and travel insurance.
Canada is the most educated country in the nation. Over 56% of adults meet the criteria used by the OECD. Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PWPP) allows students to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after completion of their graduation. You can gain some international work experience and apply for permanent residency later on. Universal Study Abroad can even fetch you a scholarship. What’s better? You don’t have to be in a budget constraint now!
With one of the longest coastlines, vast wilderness, world-class cities, and a culture of tolerance and diversity, Canada is a natural destination for thousands of international students. Maybe you don’t know much about Canada beyond its ski slopes and wild moose population. But there are plenty of reasons why you should study in Canada, so here are some of the most important ones…
High-Quality Education at an Affordable Cost
Canadian degrees, certificates, and diplomas are considered internationally equal to equivalent degrees in the U.S. and other Commonwealth countries. Canadians are serious about education, and their universities demonstrate that commitment with beautiful ultra-modern campuses. The variety of degree programs in Canada is vast, with everything from humanities to technology and health, with some very specialized environmental programs available only in the Great White North. In addition, English Language Schools and French Language Schools abound and offer a variety of side activities from skiing to camping. While the quality of education rivals the U.S. and the U.K., the costs of tuition and living are significantly lower.
A Safe Community
Canada is a friendly, safe country with a high standard of living. Low crime rates, great student health benefits, and universities focused on student security and health make studying in Canada a good choice for anyone who’s uneasy about personal safety while abroad. The Global Peace Index ranks Canada among its top 10 safest countries in the world to visit.
High-Tech Campus, High-Tech Country
When the major educational institutions of the world adjusted to technological innovations, Canada played a great role and remains at the forefront of technology trends. It has consistently been an international leader in computer and information technologies, and has a reputation for excellence
in such sectors as telecommunications, transportation, and engineering. Remember when the world started to recognize the need to connect schools and libraries to the Internet? Canada’s pioneering SchoolNet program has changed the way students learn and has made good echoes in other nations.
Those technological innovations seem to cover the entire country as countless other modern, high-tech amenities are pretty much available to everyone. From Olympic-quality sports facilities to public concert halls and art galleries, Canada offers enormous possibilities for learning and leisure. There are incredible opportunities to meet like-minded people and gain valuable experience through student-run governments, media, and businesses. Studying abroad in Canada opens up a wealth of research and scholars to draw upon for several disciplines.
Rich Multiculturalism
Canada has a policy of encouraging multicultural diversity, and this has resulted in a welcoming environment where almost all the world’s ethnic groups are represented. The country ensures that people’s customs and traditions are preserved, and that value and dignity of all people are respected. You can simply be yourself, while feeling no pressure to assimilate to prescribed values.
An Exciting and Beautiful Place to Live
Everyone studying abroad should remember that there is a lot of life outside campus, too. Whether you enjoy spending time or being active outdoors, or are simply interested in exploring nature and seeing an amazing assortment of wildlife, you don’t have to travel far in Canada to find it. From the lush coastline of British Columbia, the majestic Rocky Mountains of Alberta, the big skies of the prairies, the ‘maple sugar country’ in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence, and the rugged hills and attractive coastline of the Atlantic Provinces — there’s usually an eyeful of natural beauty in Canada.
Student visa
International students are required to obtain a Study Permit before going to Canada. The student can apply for Study permit under the Student Partners Program (SPP) of the Association of Canadian Community Colleges and the Canadian Immigration Programs in New Delhi and Chandigarh. To qualify for Study Permit Application under SPP the student should hold an unconditional offer letter from one of the universities / colleges that are included under this scheme. SPP is currently open to Indian nationals only. Allow at least two months for your Visa to be processed.
Documents Checklist for SSP (STUDENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM):
- SPP Checklist – Attach THIS checklist as a cover sheet to your application.
- Application form fully completed (all questions answered), dated and signed, indicating your personal mailing address, reliable phone contact, and your personal email address (if you agree to e-mail communications).
- Original, valid passport for yourself, as well as a photocopy of the bio data page
- Family Information Form and Student Questionnaire (leaving no gaps).
- Two passport photographs with a white background for yourself and each family member requesting a visa. The photographs should have your name printed on the back, dated and taken in the past 6 months.
- Letter of Acceptance from your SPP educational institute in Canada stating unconditional admission, course title, duration of study, level of study, start date (multiple start dates, if applicable) and latest possible date of admission.
- Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) (if applicable)
- IELTS test results taken within last 24 months with overall band not less than 6.0, with no individual band lower than 5.5.
- Photocopy of the most recent diploma/leaving certificate, and most recent mark sheets (for entire program; consolidated mark sheets are NOT acceptable)
- Copy of receipts for tuition payment provided by the SPP institution.
- Proof of funds: You MUST demonstrate the purchase of a special (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution, in the amount of $10,000 CAD to cover living expenses for your first year in Canada. Please consult page 2 for information on how to obtain a GIC. Official GIC document is mandatory.
- Copy of medical examination form IMM1017 if you opted to undergo a medical examination before submitting your application.
Note:
It is mandatory to complete a medical examination prior to submission of your application. Medical results are valid for one year
Only one application per person per semester will be processed under the SPP (Student Partnership Program). Subsequent applications for the same semester following a refusal will NOT form part of SPP processing
To file Study Permit application under SPP, it is mandatory to show a GIC certificate obtained from Scotia Bank proving that funds to the extent of CAD$ 10000 are available as living costs for the student.
After reviewing your application, the Visa officer will decide if an interview is necessary. The Visa interview will be taken at CHC, New Delhi
UK courses are generally shorter than other countries, helping to reduce overall tuition fees and accommodation costs. Choose from over 50,000 courses, in more than 25 subject areas. As an internationals student, you’ll have access to free medical treatment while studying in the UK through the National Health Service. Going to university in the UK is a great way to expand your knowledge, meet new people, experience a new culture, and enjoy new experiences. You’ll get plenty of support at university, and a chance to experience a great student lifestyle. Whatever your interests, there’s a huge range of clubs and societies, as well as a diverse social life on offer. Also, it is possible to work while you study too. Furthermore, we take it as a social responsibility towards the welfare of society that we hunt the best possible scholarship as well.Future employers want people with a grasp on English and this is the best place where you can be amongst typical English environment.
The UK has become one of the top destinations to study around the world. With traditions of excellence dating back hundreds of years, high class institutions in every corner and much more flexibility than many other countries, the United Kingdom has much to offer international students that other English-speaking countries cannot offer.
But what makes the United Kingdom stand out? Why should you come to the UK as a destination to further your international education?
Growing Destination
International students have always been an important presence in the UK, and their numbers have been growing steadily over the years. In fact, the UK is now the second most popular destination for international students, behind the US. The UK has worked hard to capitalize on the growing demand for English-language instruction and the post-9/11 visa hurdles in the US. The top ten countries sending students to the UK are:
- China
- India
- Nigeria
- Malaysia
- USA
- Hong Kong
- Germany
- France
- Republic of Ireland
- Greece
Worldwide Recognition
Degrees and qualifications from UK higher education institutions are known around the world as high quality and world class. This standard of excellence is set by some of the older universities with recognizable names, such as Oxford and Cambridge, but the tradition carries through to many of the universities and colleges throughout the UK. When looking for work in the future, this can be a great selling point in your favour!
Education Costs are lower
The cost of education for an international student in the UK can beis generally lower compared to the USA and other countries. Programs in the USA can be $25,000 or more a year in tuition alone. Tuition for the majority of UK higher education institutions generally £6,000 to £7,000 a year – considerably less!
Because your degree will generally take less time to complete in the UK than in other countries, this will also save you money. Although four-year programs are increasing in popularity, most degree programs in the UK are three years, and a master’s program is typically between one and two years.
Although international students can manage their affairs so that their UK education is affordable, UK policymakers are taking note of an alarming trend in the cost of education for non-EU students. With exchange rates climbing, life in the UK can be quite expensive. In addition, unlike in many other EU countries, non-EU students are charged higher rates in the UK than students from EU countries. One recent study from the Higher Education Policy Institute warned that the UK must act to contain and reduce tuition and costs to stay competitive in the hunt for international students. At InternationalStudent.com, we are always cheered when policy-makers take note of the increasing costs of international education. As global competition for international students heats up, we’ll be watching for the UK to act aggressively to keep the UK a primary destination for international students.
Work Opportunities
An international student in the UK is typically allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during school term, and up to full-time when school is out of term. Of course, you should always check with your international advisor at your school before starting any work – you do not want to be in violation of your visa, and rules change frequently. Also, it is not always easy to find a job, so relying on work income to fund your education is not a good idea. Unless you have employment set up through your school before you arrive, you should plan to fund the entire first year of your studies without any employment income. Please visit our Visa and Immigration pages for more details on working in the UK as an international student.
Scholarships/ Loans
Financing an international education is always difficult. The best approach includes lots of preparation, careful analysis of your budget, and hard work in researching and applying for scholarships. There are a variety of scholarships and loans available to students who wish to study in the UK. Please visit our Financing/ Scholarships section for more detailed information, and also check out the following resources:
Gateway to Europe
With the addition of the Channel Tunnel and low cost airlines such as EasyJet and Ryan Air, Europe is easier to access than ever. You can reach most areas of Europe from the UK within a few hours by train or direct flight. For example, if you are studying in London or Manchester and you want a weekend away in Italy, you can fly Ryan Air direct to Rome, Milan, Pisa, Genoa, Venice or several other cities in Italy. The direct flight would take around two hours and cost anywhere from 30 to 100 pounds, depending on when you travel and when you book. Visit our Getting Around section for more UK travel information.
Multicultural Nation
The UK is known for its multicultural society, with all religions and faiths represented in some way. With a racial, ethnic and religious jumble, the UK is very open to new traditions and cultures – something that is a great thing for students from other countries! You can also be sure that a place of worship will be easily accessible for most major religions – and for more information on this please see our Religion section or visit the following sites:
Student visa procedure for UK
UK Student Visa (Tier 4) Requirements
International students from outside the UK or EU must apply for a student visa. You can only apply for a student visa if you intend to study a full-time degree course in the UK. Student visas are not issued for part-time courses. Your eligibility is calculated using a points-based rules system called a Tier 4 Student Visa.
Student Visa Rules – An Introduction
You need 40 points to apply for a student visa. This is achieved by:
- Course confirmation: you must receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies(CAS) from a university approved by UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI).
- All universities must have been given or applied for Highly Trusted Status (HTS) on the UKVI Tier 4 Sponsor list (30 points). ‘A rated’ colleges can also issue CAS numbers. The ‘A’ rating is a transitional rating for 12 months and all ‘A rated’ colleges must apply for HTS status within this 12 month transition period.All universities on the Study London website have Highly Trusted Status (HTS). You can view the London university profiles for more information about each London University, or use the course search to find the right course for you.
- Funding: you must provide evidence of funding to pay for both your course tuition fees and your monthly living costs (10 points).Tuition fees are on average £12,000 per year but can range from £8,000 to £36,000. You will also need to show that you have £1,265 for each month of your studies (up to a maximum of nine months) to pay for living costs if you study in inner London. Therefore, if you will be studying in inner London for a course lasting nine months or more, the maximum amount that you will need is £11,385.This applies to all students looking to study in London. You will be considered to be studying ‘in London’ if you are studying at the University of London, or at institutions wholly or partly within London, or in areas on the border of London such as parts of Essex, Hertfordshire and Surrey. If you are not sure if your institution is considered to be ‘in London’ you should check with your university before you make your Tier 4 application.Visit the UK Visa and Immigration website to check the full eligibility criteria for a UK study visa. You can also read further guidance on the UKCISA website.
- Visa Application: In order to submit your Tier 4 student visa application, please visit the UK Visa & Immigration website to complete the online application form. International students from all countries (apart from North Korea) have to submit the visa application online. You will also need to have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken at a visa application centre as part of your application.
- Immigration Health Service Charge: All nationals from outside of Europe coming to live in the UK for longer than six months are required to pay a ‘health surcharge’ in order to gain access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The health surcharge is £150 per year (or £75 for 6 months or less) for students and is payable when you submit your visa application on-line. Visa applicants need to pay up-front for the total period of their UK visa. For further information, read our Health Advice for International Students.Remember, you can only apply for a visa once you have been given a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Check you are eligible for a UK Student Visa but do not apply until after you have been accepted onto a course. Your chosen university can guide you through the visa process once you have been accepted onto a course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while I am studying in the UK?
You can work for up to 20 hours a week during your studies and full-time during your holidays to help support your studies. This only applies if you are studying a degree level course at a UK higher education institution for longer than 6 months. The university or college must be listed on the Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) list and the list of recognised bodies. Find out more information about working in the UK during your studies and after you graduate.
When Can I Apply?
You will need to be offered the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your chosen university before you can apply for a visa. You can only apply for your visa three months before the start date of your course. This means, if your course starts at the end of September, you will receive your CAS around the end of June.
Can my family come to the UK with me?
You can bring your partner and children to the UK as your Tier 4 dependant if you are a government-sponsored student and your course is longer than six months or you are doing a postgraduate level course of 12 months or longer at a publicly-funded Higher Education Institution or a ‘recognised body‘.
You cannot bring your family to the UK as a Tier 4 dependant if you are studying an English language course, a course which is below degree level or an undergraduate course (except if you are a government-sponsored student).
For further information, visit the UKCISA website.
How much does the Tier 4 student visa cost?
If you are applying from outside the UK, the cost of the visa is £322 (plus the Immigration Health Service Charge).
If you are already in the UK, you can apply by post for £439 (plus the Immigration Health Service Charge) or in person for £839 (plus the Immigration Health Service Charge).